Why Extend KVM?

Why Extend KVM?

KVM extenders are used in a huge range of applications in almost all sectors. From power stations to churches and from server farms to supermarkets, KVM extenders have been used to solve a range of problems. Here are some common application examples.

Presentations and training

KVM extenders are ideal for situations where you need to display and control a power point presentation from a podium located at a distance from the source computer. Auto-queues, song words, video clips and photographs are other examples of presentation materials that may need to be displayed in this way. Sometimes only the Keyboard and mouse need be extended, particularly where the picture will be displayed from a projector. In this case a PS/2 or USB only extender may be a cost effective choice.

Interactive displays

Often the computers driving the interactive displays (e.g. touch screens) found in some waiting rooms, reception areas, town halls and shopping centres can not be placed near to the display for security and maintenance reasons. A KVM extender allows the computer to be placed in secure location at a convenient distance from the display.

Computer free work areas

Computers generate heat and noise and take up office space. Computers also have physical interfaces that may need to be hidden from uses for security and maintenance reasons (such as the CD drive, power switch and USB interface). Call centres, internet cafes and schools are examples of environments that may choose to locate some or all computers in a secure and environmentally controlled server rooms and give users access to these computers using KVM extenders.

Industrial control and monitoring

A computer collecting industrial data or controlling industrial processes may be located in an area uncomfortable or hazardous to people. KVM extenders can be used to give control of these devices from a safe and comfortable distance.

Server room and server farm management

Server rooms are designed for computers, not for people. They are chilly, dry, noisy places, often located out of the way and they also have strict security and fire control procedures. Whether an administrator needs access to a handful of servers, or to hundreds, a KVM extender can be interfaced to a KVM switch granting access to all servers from a comfortable and convenient location.